Improving Our Campus Climate

Improving Our Campus Climate | Listen, Learn, Respect

SUNY Plattsburgh is focused on building up a campus environment that is inclusive and welcoming to all, and which celebrates the diverse experiences and perspectives of all members.

On February 14, 2018, our campus community was confronted by an offensive, racist image on social media channels. The image was originally posted on Snapchat to a private group in January and included a vile message. The incident sparked demonstrations on campus, as well as in-depth and ongoing discussions among campus community members regarding racism, the Student Code of Conduct and diversity programs.

Through this time, we have been made more aware of the complex challenges facing many members of a campus community and we now see that we must do better. We are committing ourselves to making ‘better’ happen.

President Ettling initiated 10 key action steps for the campus to take. These steps are the starting point. An update link is below. Supporting documents for each will be included there as needed.

Progress Report (PDF)

Action Steps

Establish a bias response-and-referral process that will address bias incidents.

Enhance the effort to improve the diversity of faculty and professionals. We will review our practices and report annually on our progress.

Implement mandatory, face-to-face training for all employees on diversity and inclusion.

Engage students and legal counsel in a comprehensive review of our Student Conduct Manual.

Request the Faculty Senate to charge the General Education Committee to institute a mandatory diversity requirement for all students.

Form a Social Justice Task Force, consisting of students, faculty, alumni, staff and community members.

Send a letter to the SUNY Board of Trustees advocating for a change in the Display of the Flag Policy to support raising the Black Lives Matter flag and other flags that are representative of our student body.

Create a Multi-Cultural Unity Space in the Angell College Center.

Increase University Police presence to ensure the safety of our campus community.